Music & Dance

Michael Drost

Chicago native, Michael Drost is currently an instructor of jazz at Grand Valley University where he teaches jazz improvisation, jazz guitar and coaches a variety of small ensembles.
Michael divides his time performing and teaching in West Michigan while maintaining his Chicago roots as founder, musical director and guitarist of the award-winning band “Standing Room Only Orchestra”.
Michael performs a wide range of musical styles. Such diversity has allowed him to share the stage with an eclectic mix of musicians including Caissie Levy (Wicked, Ghost), Jonathan Brandmeier, Frank Stallone, Bob Seger, John Slade, Paul Mabin, Michael Harvey, Mel Torme, Kenny Werner and Darmon Meader. Throughout his career Michael has performed with many notable Midwest musical groups and artists such as Generations, Groove Merchant, Daniel James Band, NYCO, Three Cent Stomp and the Holland Symphony Orchestra.
As a guitarist/composer/music producer Michael has been a regular in Chicago’s many studios and jingle houses. His playing and compositions can be heard on television and radio ads, including spots for Amtrak, Discover Card, Comcast Sports, CNN Sports Retro, America’s Test Kitchen, The Musky Hunter, Tim Hawkin’s Comedy, The Huntin’ Junky and many more. Much of Michael’s most recent music production work has been composed and produced for a royalty free music library named Digital Juice. His music continues to receive national network placement.
Michael graduated Cum Laude from Western Michigan Universities Jazz Studies program. During his formative years Drost studied with Steve Zegree, Trent Kynaston, Fareed Haque, Tom Knific and Bob Palmieri. While at WMU, Michael received two Down Beat magazine awards: “Best Jazz Instrumentalist” and “Best Blues/Pop/Rock Group”.